Eva's Story

When Eva’s mother, father and brother were killed, she fled from South Sudan to Ethiopia. Alone. She was 9 years old. This is her story.

South Sudan to Ethiopia

days12

miles254

km409

Escaping South Sudan

When armed forces reached her village and began attacking her family, Eva was forced to flee alone.

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miles0

km0

Walking for days

Nine-year-old Eva walked for six days, alone, until she reached a town on the Ethiopian border. There, a woman helped her and gave her shoes and clothes. She also gave Eva money so that she could cross the river to Ethiopia, and finally reach safety.

day6

miles150

km243

Crossing the Border

When Eva reached the safety of Ethiopia, she walked to the Tirgol transit center, where she and other refugees received food, a sleeping mat, shelter, water and a jerry can from UNHCR.

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miles154

km249

Taking Shelter

After five days at the transit center, UNHCR protection officers transferred Eva to the Nguenyyiel refugee camp where she would have access to better shelter, medical care and importantly, school.

day12

miles254

km409

Cover Eva's Miles

If you've been inspired by Eva's resilience and courage you can try walking, running or cycling 250 miles. That's the same distance she traveled as a scared 9-year-old girl from South Sudan to Ethiopia, alone.